Diana Adu, aka, Lady D
Defender
Earlier this year, Steppers Women’s Walking Football Club took part in a short community film series celebrating the power of movement, connection, and community.
The campaign was created to encourage South Asian Muslim and Black women aged 40+ to rediscover the joy, confidence, and wellbeing that can come from intentional, everyday physical activity.
The film forms part of an official This Girl Can campaign with Sport England, delivered through the Omnicom advertising agency, with Foxglove leading the creative and production in partnership with Diversity Media Sales.
For the women of Steppers, the experience was more than simply appearing in a film — it was an opportunity to share the spirit of the club: women supporting one another, staying active, and building community through football.
What follows is a personal reflection from Steppers defender Diana Adu, who has been part of the team for the past year, sharing how the filming day felt and how being part of Steppers has positively shaped her journey.
My Experience of Filming for This Girl Can
It may surprise a few people to know that I am extremely shy, socially awkward, and very much an introvert. I tend to observe rather than participate, usually preferring others to lead while I stay quietly in the background. When the opportunity came up to film for This Girl Can, I almost didn’t go. I was so anxious. Every part of me wanted to stay in my comfort zone and avoid being seen. The thought of cameras, attention, and stepping forward felt overwhelming.
But being part of Steppers Walking Football Team has emboldened me. What started as a place of discomfort slowly became a space where I felt supported, encouraged, and brave enough to take part. Without even realising it, I began stepping forward instead of shrinking back.
When I sent my daughter the film from the shoot, she was shocked. “Mum, you were at the front wow!” she said. I went back to watch it myself, and she was right. I hadn’t even realised I had done that. For someone who has always battled internally with not wanting to be the centre of attention, there I was right at the front.
I nearly didn’t show up that day because of fear. But I did. And that decision showed me something powerful: I can be out there, fully myself. It’s still a work in progress, but I am no longer just observing life ,I a m participating in it.
Filming for This Girl Can, a campaign by Sport England, reminded me that courage doesn’t always look loud. Sometimes it simply means showing up.
Thank you Diana for sharing your journey thus far at Steppers! I love it!!
Steppers is always looking for Black women over 40 to come join us, for fun, fitness and community fabulousness. Good vibz guaranteed.
Steppers Women Of Colour Walking Football Club- We Don’t Run, We Rise!
THIS GIRL CAN CAMPAIGN